Enchin’s Secular Family Tree (Enchin zokusho keizu)Additions by Enchin

Ink on Paper / One Scroll of Seven Sheets

  • original
  • transcription

Japan's Oldest Vertical Family Tree

This depicts the family tree of the Imiki-no-Obito Clan from Sanuki Province, later known as the Wakekimi family, from which Chisho Daishi Enchin originated. This vertical family tree, written lengthwise over seven sheets of paper, traces about 18 generations from Emperor Keiko to Enchin and is the oldest existing historical document of its kind. Enchin's own writings are found throughout the scroll, indicating his constant attention to his lineage. According to these writings, it was commissioned during the Jowa period (834–848), and it states that the Wakekimi family name was conferred in 866.

Category
National Treasure
Era
Heian period (9th century)
Measurements
29.1 × 324.0 cm